Virtual vs. Augmented Reality: What is the Difference?

Virtual reality and augmented reality are two technologies a lot of people talk about, but many find it confusing to differentiate. In this guide, we will look at how they are different. We will also explore what these technologies offer in terms of uses, companies which offer it, and what is happening with AR and VR in the future.

So, let’s start with defining what virtual reality is. 

Virtual Reality is a technology that creates an immersive, simulated 3D environment generated by a computer. There, people can interact in a seemingly real or physical way.

For the full experience, VR typically requires the use of special goggles or headsets.  It creates a digital environment,  using either images, video or both combined together, into something called 360 degree views. Users can experience anything, from playing games through simulations of travel destinations, without ever leaving the comfort of home! Virtual Reality enables many to escape our physical environment, and enter into a digital world where anything is possible.

What are some practical uses for VR?

Virtual Reality headsets are frequently used by businesses for training employees remotely. Walmart, for example, recently announced that they would be using VR headsets for training new employees in their stores. This is done to help cut down on the cost of having trainers present at each store location. Other businesses that have started using VR for employee training include McDonalds and Ford Motor Company.

VR can also be used for tourism purposes. There are a number of companies that offer VR tours of different destinations around the world. These tours range from exploring ancient ruins to going on safari.

Some people also use VR as a form of entertainment. There are now many different virtual reality games available for purchase or download. These games often allow players to experience worlds and adventures that they would never otherwise get to. Some examples of popular VR games are Fortnite, Mine Craft and many more.

Now let’s now take a look at what augmented reality is all about?. 

Augmented reality is a technology that superimposes digital information onto the user’s view of the real world. Basically, you can have virtual objects placed into your actual environment.  This can be done through special eyeglasses, or displays that are built into helmets or glasses. 

For example, imagine you are out walking with your friends, but you want to show them that cool new sword, you just got in your favorite game. You would be able to hold up your phone, and see that sword superimposed onto the real world in front of you! This is because augmented reality apps use either the rear or front-facing camera on devices, to scan the surrounding environment, and then overlay digital content on top of it.

Augmented reality can be applied to many different fields. It’s an excellent way for technicians and engineers to receive visual instructions on how to do their work, but it has also been used in gaming as well. 

In this case, augmented reality allows players wearing special glasses or helmets with built-in displays to interact with virtual landscapes which are generated by computer software.

So, which products are examples for VR and AR?

For VR, the big players are HTC Vive, Oculus, Sony PlayStation. These headsets allow users to experience simulated environments in first- or third-person views.

For AR, the most popular platform is Apple’s iPhone and iPad. There are a number of apps that use AR, but the most popular is Pokémon GO. This app allows users to capture digital creatures in the real world by pointing their device’s camera at them.

Let’s summarize the difference Between VR and AR.

Virtual reality or VR, is an artificial environment that is created with software and presented to the user in such a way that they feel immersed in it. Augmented Reality or AR, on the other hand, adds digital information to the user’s real-world environment.

So, what is the future for these technologies?

The future for VR and AR looks very promising! The global market for these technologies is projected to reach $454.73 billion by 2030. It’s being driven by growing demand for the technology in gaming, entertainment, and even education.

VR will be used more and more to experience things that are impossible in the real world. For example, it can be used to travel to different places without ever having to leave your home, or it could be used to attend a meeting or lecture without actually being there. Additionally, scientists believe that VR has potential applications in mental health treatment and rehabilitation.

Some experts say that augmented reality is more versatile than virtual reality because it doesn’t require users to completely immerse themselves in a simulated environment. Instead, AR allows users to keep one foot in the real world while interacting with digital content overplayed on top of it. This makes augmented reality well-suited for tasks such as providing instructions or directions.

In our opinion, with the eminent growth of metaverse, it will be used interchangeably as a part of the whole experience.

So, which technology do you prefer? Let us know by visiting our website, vezoversetv.com!

I hope this coverage was useful for you! Kindly share your VR or AR experiences with us! Also, spread the word about Vezoverse TV, a digital channel, where reporters are presented as 3D characters like me!

I am Jenia Lilij, a digital reporter from Vezoverse TV, Vezoverse City, Vezoverse.

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